Embedded Files
This Pathways class was an exploration of art and objects we interact with on a daily basis such as clay vessels, woven fabrics and hand sewn sculptures. With each medium, we practiced various techniques, looked at artist inspiration, developed preliminary sketches and had collaborative conversations to give students a jumping off point for their exploration. Utilizing this structure, students were able to dive deeper into their medium of choice. Ultimately, this class was about creating the space for students to discover what it means to be an artist in ways that felt authentic to each unique individual.
About Our Process
About Our Process
Clay
Clay
Students learned about the many types of clay including natural kiln-fired, paper clay, polymer, modeling, air dry and even clay like materials such as Crayola model magic (a throwback to their younger years).
After completing a skill builder that demonstrated their ability to execute basic clay hand-building techniques of rolling coils, slab construction, attaching two pieces of clay and adding textured surface decoration, students were off to construct their own mini sculptures.
Fibers/Sewing
Fibers/Sewing
Fibers is a broad category of art that involves any type of synthetic or natural fibers such as yarn or fabric. Art-making processes for fibers include weaving, knitting, crochet, felting, sewing and much more! At the end of this trimester, some students were able to squeeze in a some weaving or knitting on a loom while others chose to continue diving deeper into clay.
Using the Studio Habits of Mind
Using the Studio Habits of Mind
Develop Craft: I can improve my art making skills by practicing techniques. Practice for progress...not perfection!
Engage & Persist: I find creative solutions to problems I encounter. I embrace "mistakes" as essential steps to the learning process.
Envision: I create a plan for the direction I would like to go in with my project.
Observe: I pay close attention to the small details of my project.
Stretch & Explore: I challenge myself to try new techniques and materials.
Express: I create art that holds meaning to me and can communicate that to others.
Reflect: I can identify my successes and areas of improvement.
Understand the Art World: I participate respectfully in the creative community of our studio classroom. I can find inspiration from others.
Students complete creative and collaborative challenges or "tasks" during our Task Party at the beginning of the trimester. Examples of tasks: build the tallest tower, give someone a manicure, turn a chair into a monster, find someone to give a tattoo (washable markers only) and many more! This is a fun way to to think outside the box and problem solve through the tasks all while building community. (Stretch & Explore)
How is art assessed?
How is art assessed?
This year, all Pathways classess are assessed using the following rubrics in two categories: Content Mastery and Student Learner Expectations. Students need to receive a 3 or a 4 in both categories to have an overall "complete" grade.
About Ms. Morrell
About Ms. Morrell
My approach to teaching is called choice-based art education. The foundation of a choice-based approach emphasizes the role of the student as artist where they become the primary drivers and decision makers for their art-making experiences.
As a fellow artist and teacher in our AACA studio, I believe my role is to provide the structure, skills and resources for learners of all abilities and diverse backgrounds to thrive.
I find students are most successful and engaged when they are able to pursue an artistic process that feels most authentic to them within a supportive, collective environment.
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